This procedure flushes and replaces the power steering fluid in the 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L to maintain proper steering system operation and prevent component wear.

Warnings

Tools required

Fluids

• Kia PSF-4 — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure engine is completely cold
3. Safely raise and support the front of the vehicle on jack stands to allow free wheel movement
4. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir in the engine bay on the driver's side near the firewall
5. Place drain pan beneath the vehicle to catch any spilled fluid

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove old fluid from reservoir
   Remove the power steering reservoir cap. Use a turkey baster or fluid transfer pump to extract as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir. Dispose of old fluid properly in accordance with local regulations.
2. 2

   Fill with fresh fluid
   Using a funnel, fill the power steering reservoir with fresh Kia PSF-4 fluid to the MAX or upper mark on the reservoir. The reservoir holds approximately 1 quart total.
3. 3

   Cycle steering to circulate fluid
   Without starting the engine, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock (full left to full right) 5-10 times. This will begin circulating the new fluid through the system and push old fluid back into the reservoir.
4. 4

   Remove and refill again
   Check the reservoir fluid level and color. Use the turkey baster to remove the fluid (which will now be darker from mixing with old fluid). Refill the reservoir to the MAX mark with fresh Kia PSF-4 fluid.
5. 5

   Repeat flushing cycle
   Again turn the steering wheel from lock to lock 5-10 times without starting the engine. Check the fluid color in the reservoir. If still significantly dark, repeat the removal and refill process from steps 1-4 until the fluid remains relatively clean.
6. 6

   Start engine and bleed air
   Start the engine and let it idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 3-5 times while the engine is running. Check for any unusual noises (grinding or whining) which would indicate air in the system. Top off the reservoir to the MAX mark as needed.
7. 7

   Final fluid level check
   With the engine running at idle and wheels pointed straight ahead, verify the fluid level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. Add fluid if necessary to reach the proper level. Check that the fluid is not foamy, which would indicate air remains in the system.

Reassembly

1. Securely install the power steering reservoir cap
2. Wipe clean any spilled fluid from the reservoir, engine bay components, and underneath the vehicle
3. Lower the vehicle from jack stands

Verification

• Start the engine and verify smooth, quiet power steering operation with no whining or grinding noises
• Turn the steering wheel through its full range of motion and confirm normal assist in both directions
• Check the power steering reservoir fluid level is at the MAX mark with engine idling
• Inspect for any leaks around the reservoir, hoses, and connections
• Verify the fluid color is clean red/pink and not foamy or discolored
• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal steering feel and response

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